When I first heard the news that Isaac Hayes had died, all I could think was, "hush your mouth."

I say that not to be disrespectful. But, because the legendary rhythm and blues singer was an icon, and will always be remembered for his biggest hit, the "Theme From Shaft."

Hayes, 65, died on Sunday. He was found next to an active treadmill by relatives, according to reports from the Shelby County Sheriff's Department in Memphis, Tenn.

With his messsage of black empowerment, Hayes became a symbol of hope for many African-Americans, whose culture and human rights had been suppressed for so many years.

Hayes often began his concerts dressed in "chains," but during his performance he would symbolicly shed those shackles.

With his bald pate, deep, sexual voice, the accomplished singer, songwriter and musician was the personification of "cool."

Hayes' greatest success came during his 1960s and 1970s tenure with Stax Records. His hits included, "Never Can Say Goodbye," "By The Time I Get To Phoenix," "Walk On By," and "If Loving You Is Wrong (I Don't Want To Be Right)."

At the time of his death, Hayes was working on a new album for the recently resurrected Stax label.

Hayes, who was respected by his peers, has been described as a hard-working perfectionist while in the recording studio. But, his friends also say he was always respectful and friendly.

Former Muskegon Heights resident, Lee Sain, who recorded with Stax during the 1970s, described Hayes as a "gentle soul," with extraordinary talent, during an interview with The Muskegon Chronicle last summer.

"We used to call him "Bubba," Sain recalled. "Anybody who lets you call him 'Bubba,' has to be a nice guy."